We all look forward to spring. The days get longer, the flowers bloom, and we can put away those winter coats and boots. But spring weather can be unpredictable and the season is a prime time for severe weather. The chance for dangerous thunderstorms, flooding, and tornadoes, peaks during the months of March, April, and May.
The Mentor Fire Department wants you to be prepared for a severe weather event.
- Prepare an emergency supplies kit for family members and pets.
- Do not drive into flooded areas. Even water that is only several inches deep can be dangerous.
- Always assume fallen power lines are energized. Report any downed lines by calling 911 immediately.
- Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers and televisions, to prevent damage from surges caused by lightning strikes. Make sure family members know how to turn off the water, gas, and electricity in your home.
- Create and practice an emergency plan for every type of severe weather. Know what to do before the storm hits.
- Make sure your house number can be seen from the street. If you need help, firefighters will be able to find you faster.
Being prepared also means being informed and planning in advance before an emergency occurs. Lake County offers a Reverse 911 Alert System to notify Lake County Residents of emergency information via landline, cell phone or text alerts. The WENS system also provides weather warnings as well as information specific to the Mentor community. Knowing about approaching bad weather can help you prepare and may save your life. Registration takes less than 60 seconds. Register at reverse911signup.info.
Residents who are living alone, elderly or disabled are encouraged to enroll in the City of Mentor’s Well-Check Program. This system is intended for those residents who may have special medical needs, transportation and/or communication issues. In the event of a long-term power outage or other large-scale emergency, safety personnel will call residents in the Well-Check program to make sure they are safe. If phone contact cannot be made, safety personnel will be sent to the home.
If your power goes out, call 888-LIGHTSS (888-544-4877) or go online to report your outage. Do not call 911 for a power outage unless you or someone in your home is hurt or in danger.